Linked / Related Accounts

Linked / Related Accounts

Linked and related accounts on Amazon are multiple seller accounts that Amazon associates with the same individual, business entity or shared data point. If your account has been deactivated because it is related to another account that is not eligible to sell, it can be a challenging situation to navigate, but it is one Addrox resolves regularly.

Why Amazon links accounts

Amazon has policies in place to prevent unfair practices, maintain a level playing field and protect the integrity of its marketplace. Its systems connect accounts that share information such as a name, address, bank account, credit card, tax ID, phone number, device, IP address, Wi-Fi network, product catalogue or even a browser fingerprint. Accounts may be linked based on factors including:

• Multiple accounts: operating more than one seller account without a legitimate business need and Amazon's approval, for example to bypass selling limits or performance metrics.
• Account transfers: attempting to transfer ownership or control of a suspended account to a new account to evade enforcement.
• Account misuse: manipulating reviews, sales rank or purchases across several accounts.
• Performance issues: opening a new account under the same individual or business after a previous account was suspended for poor performance or policy violations.
• Restricted categories: using additional accounts to gain unauthorised access to gated categories or brands.
• Shared resources: employees, agencies, family members or co-working spaces that connect your account to someone else's through shared devices, networks or details.

It is important for sellers to understand and comply with these policies. Violations can lead to account suspension, loss of selling privileges or, in serious cases, legal consequences.

Steps to take if your account is linked to another

1. Review Amazon's communicationRead the notice carefully to understand the specific reason for the deactivation and, where given, the related account Amazon has identified.
2. Assess the relationshipEstablish the nature of the link: shared information, financial ties, previous associations, a former employee or a service provider. Identifying and addressing these connections is crucial.
3. Prepare a Plan of ActionExplain the steps taken to sever any connection with the ineligible account and prevent future violations, with specific actions, timelines and supporting evidence.
4. Follow Amazon's appeal processSubmit through the official channel, adhering to Amazon's format, and ensure the appeal is clear, concise and addresses every point raised.
5. Be persistent and professionalIf the first appeal is rejected, continue to communicate with Seller Performance, providing additional information or clarification as required.
6. Consider professional assistanceSpecialists can help you identify a link you cannot see, craft a stronger appeal and escalate the case where necessary.

The success of your appeal depends on the strength of your Plan of Action, your ability to sever the connection and your commitment to future compliance. Addrox has extensive experience with related-account deactivations and provides personalised advice based on the specifics of your situation.